In August 2005 I attended a writer’s retreat in New Mexico through the AROHO Foundation.  A Room of Her Own Foundation (AROHO) provides women writers a place to gather amid the stunning red canyons, high mesas and desert skies of Georgia O’Keeffe’s famous Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico. Over six days retreat participants discussed and practiced the craft of writing with award-winning writers. This writer’s retreat allowed me to honor myself as a poet. Like still water entering my pores at just the right time, this retreat was a gift. Check out my pictures of the beautiful scenery.

In April 2006 twenty artists of the Berkeley Bridge Association (BBA) traveled to Japan to exhibit their work with forty-five Japanese artists. Japan’s cherry blossom season was just beginning. For many Japanese people, the blooming of the cherry trees symbolizes human life, transience and nobleness. They celebrate this fleeting beauty while it lasts. I traveled with fellow BBA artists to the city of Sakai visiting art studios, “home staying” with a lovely Japanese family and experiencing the artistic and cultural heritage of Japan. Click here for a few photos.